Dementia is a neurological disease characterised by progressive destruction of brain cells, leading to a gradual decline in cognitive functions including memory, thinking, language, judgment, and the ability to carry out everyday activities (ADL - Activities of Daily Living). It is not a single disease but a group of illnesses and symptoms that affect the brain in different ways depending on the type and the region of the brain involved.
Research confirms that the risk of developing dementia increases significantly once a person reaches the age of 65. Alzheimer's disease alone accounts for approximately 2 out of every 3 dementia cases, making it the most common form. Females have a statistically higher lifetime risk of Alzheimer's than males. Vascular dementia - often caused by strokes or reduced blood flow to the brain - accounts for around 20% of cases.
Dementia progresses in stages. It typically begins with mild forgetfulness and confusion, then advances through moderate loss of independence, and eventually to a state of complete dependency for all daily activities. Understanding the type and stage of dementia is essential to designing the right care plan - whether that is a trained attendant at home, a nurse-led care plan, or residential placement in a supervised facility.